Mountains, Adventure & Rural Splendour

Tucked away in the southern Drakensberg foothills, with the rolling Midlands countryside just beyond, Underberg is a haven for breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventure, and tranquil country charm. Rolling green hills, crystal-clear rivers and dramatic peaks flow seamlessly into the farmlands and forested lanes of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, creating a richly layered escape for hikers, anglers, food lovers and nature seekers alike.

Nearby Nottingham Road and the wider Midlands Meander add local flavour with artisanal markets, farm produce, craft breweries and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you crave adrenaline, wellness or a taste of country life, Underberg and the Midlands deliver a true escape from the everyday.

INSIDER SECRETS

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BEST TIME TO VISIT

Year-round; spring and autumn offer mild weather and vibrant landscapes, while winter brings crisp mountain air and occasional snow in the highlands.

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HIDDEN GEM

Morning walks along the Mzimkulwana River, countryside lunches in the Midlands or boutique wine tastings in Nottingham Road.

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LOCAL TIP

Combine a Sani Pass 4×4 adventure with a Midlands Meander afternoon, stopping at Piggly Wiggly, Bierfassl, and local wineries for a full day of exploration and indulgence.

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Perfect day

Sunrise hike along a mountain trail, brunch at 29° South, afternoon fly-fishing or horseback riding, craft beer tasting at Bierfassl, then wine tasting at a local vineyard while watching the sunset over the Drakensberg.

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Nature highlight

Endemic birdlife, trout-filled streams, rolling farmland and panoramic mountain vistas make Underberg and the Midlands an unforgettable rural escape.

Unmissable Experiences & Activities

Drakensberg Adventures

World-class hiking takes you from gentle river walks along the Mzimkulwana to challenging treks up Sani Pass, South Africa’s highest drivable mountain pass. Panoramic views, waterfalls and unique sandstone formations make every hike memorable, with scenic drives linking the Berg to the Midlands heartland.

Adventure & Outdoor Thrills

Horseback Riding – Explore lush valleys, rivers, and mountain trails around Underberg into the surrounding Midlands countryside.
Fly Fishing & River Activities – Rivers near Nottingham Road and across the Midlands are ideal for trout fishing, with guides for beginners or experts.
Hiking & Mountain Biking – Trails range from forest walks to full-day hikes with scenic vistas.

Sani Pass & Lesotho Border Adventures

Take a guided 4×4 trip up Sani Pass to the Lesotho border for spectacular highland scenery and insight into local culture. Winter months can bring snow, creating a striking alpine-like landscape that contrasts beautifully with the greener Midlands below.

Nottingham & Surrounding Rural Charm

Explore artisanal farms producing cheeses, preserves, and baked goods along the Midlands Meander.

Scenic drives through valleys and farmlands.

Visit Piggly Wiggly for specialty meats, deli treats, and farm-fresh products.

Sample craft beer at Bierfassl, a local brewery known for German-style beers and hearty meals.

Enjoy wine tastings at boutique vineyards dotted throughout the Midlands, pairing local vintages with farm-to-table cuisine.

Wellness & Nature Retreats

Underberg’s serene mountain setting, combined with the gentle pace of the Midlands, makes this region ideal for yoga retreats, spa treatments, and peaceful river walks. The crisp mountain air and dramatic landscapes create a perfect backdrop for relaxation and mindfulness.

EAT & DRINK

The culinary scene in Underberg, Nottingham Road and the Midlands balances rustic charm with refined flavours:

29° South at Midlands Saddle & Trout

A relaxed country-style restaurant serving hearty breakfasts, homely lunches, and delicious dinners. Perfect for to unwind with good food and warm hospitality.
Address: Midlands Saddle & Trout Resort, 152 Hidcote Road, Mooi River
Tel: 033 263 2758

Country Market Deli

Artisanal cheeses, preserves, and lunches from local ingredients.
Address: Nottingham Road, On the old 103 next to the Police Station, Nottingham Road.
Tel: 033 266 6359

Sani Valley Lodge Restaurant

Hearty local cuisine featuring game, fresh produce, and mountain views.
Address: Sani Pass Road, Sani Pass, Himeville.
Tel: 082 561 3275

Piggly Wiggly

Specialty meats, deli selections, and fresh farm products for takeaways or picnics.
Address: R103 Dargle road, Howick, Lions River.
Tel: 060 344 9359

Bierfassl

German-style beers, craft brews, and traditional hearty meals, perfect after a day of adventure.
Address: Rawdons Estate R103 KZN Midlands, Nottingham Road.
Tel: 074 377 7597

Boutique Wine Tastings

Explore local vineyards around Nottingham Road and Underberg, sampling reds, whites, and rosés paired with cheese and charcuterie.
Address: N/A
Tel: N/A

The Riverbend Eatery

Riverside café with coffee, light meals, and homemade treats.
Address: N/A
Tel: N/A

Mountain View Tavern

Traditional South African fare in a rustic, family-friendly setting.

Host Information

Lives in

Bushman’s Nek (Underberg)

Languages

English

Favourite song in high school

Black Velvet – Alannah Myles.

Fun fact

“I love to sing and dance, although my husband insists I’m not very good at either.”

My biography title would be

Adventures of Madam Doolittle.

Pets

Yes. 4 dogs, 2 horses and a pet chicken.

About ME

“I’ve been involved with horses since the age of 3. My parents thought I would outgrow it, but that never happened. I’ve spent my life as a competitive rider and now serve as a national Showing judge. When I’m not around horses, you’ll find me hiking and enjoying the outdoors. I’m a deeply passionate animal lover, and there’s truly nothing I wouldn’t do for an animal.”

Likes

Animals, comedy, cultural heritage, hiking, home improvement, horse racing, live music, outdoors, rodeo, singing and TV.